Rhys Irwin departs Astro JJR after two years

Kilmacrennan rider Rhys Irwin that after two-and-a-half years with Astro JJR, his time with them has come to an end. 

Taking to social media today, Irwin expressed his gratitude saying; “It's a small team filled with huge pride and passion and enthusiasm for racing,” he said.  

“Together we achieved race wins and podiums in the British Supersport Championship across two manufacturers and I have to say one of my proudest achievements during this time was scoring points in the world SuperSport championship as a wild card at Donington Park.” 

It’s been over a month since Irwin comped at the British Superbike Championships in Nevarra in Spain. He finished fifth in Race 1 after some mechanical difficulties during testing but a racing incident in Race 2 meant he was unable to finish. 

He slightly injured his hand last month in Donington Park but was deemed fit to participate, and while he admitted that the result that week didn’t go his way, he was glad to get some points from it. 

“It's been a tough start to the 2024 season, but we've all dug in and gave it our best,” Irwin said. “I will be forever grateful for my time with Stu and the guys and owe a particular thanks to my right-hand man during this period, Steve King, who continues to go above and beyond. 

“Special thanks to everyone who I have worked with during this time for all that they've helped me achieve, I consider myself very fortunate and privileged that I've not only shared this time with great work colleagues, but I can also call them all friends.  

“I wish the Astro JJR team all the very best for the rest of this year and beyond, it has been a blast! I hope to be able to announce what's next for me soon!”